Is dog registration compulsory?

Yes. All dogs over three months old must be registered in the name of a person aged 16 years or older [Dog and Cat Management Act 1995 (SA) ss 33, 34].

From 1 July 2018, dog registration occurs via the Dogs and Cats Online Website, which is now the centre point for registration, microchipping and breeder registration in South Australia.

Special registration procedures apply for businesses involving dogs, namely kennels at which dogs are bred or trained or businesses providing security or other services involving the use of dogs [s 35].

If the owner or person responsible for the dog fails to register the dog, the council may issue an expiation notice for that offence or a summons to answer the charge and pay a fine [s 33].

Maximum Penalty:

Dangerous or prescribed dogs: a fine of up to $5 000

In an other case: a fine of up to $2 500

Expiation fee

Dangerous or prescribed dogs: $750

Any other dog: $170

The council can issue a further expiation notice or summons for every 14 days that the dog continues to remain unregistered [see s 33(3)].